Conflict and Peace

On Thursday (18 September), the United States exercised its veto power at the United Nations Security Council to block a draft resolution that demanded an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution also called for the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid to the enclave and the unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas and other groups. Fourteen of the fifteen council members backed the resolution; the US alone opposed it.

On September 8, 2025, during his address at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the potential revival of the “3+3” format in the South Caucasus while commenting on Russia’s relations with regional countries. He noted that the initiative was initially proposed by Turkey and Azerbaijan and highlighted that it is also supported by Iran, signaling broader regional backing. Lavrov further referenced the trilateral agreement between Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia on restoring transport links and welcomed the ongoing process of normalization between Armenia and Turkey.